Federal Government

EXECUTIVE BRANCH

It is the duty of the executive branch to enforce the laws of the United States. Only a U.S. native of at least 35 years of age who has lived in the US for at least fourteen years is eligible to hold a seat in this branch.

The legislative branch makes the law, and is ruled by the Congress. The Congress of the United States is bicameral, or ruled by two chambers. These chambers are the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives. The Senate has 100 members, while the House of Representatives has 435 members.

Our National Representatives – Scott County, VA

The interpretation of the laws of the United States is vested in the judicial branch of the United States. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the land, while the lower courts, such state supreme courts, the judicial courts of appeal, and the district courts, rule underneath the Supreme Court. Chief Justice:

John G. Roberts (appointed in 2005 by Bush, GW – R)

Associate Justices:

Antonin Scalia (appointed in 1986 by Reagan – R)

Anthony Kennedy (appointed in 1988 by Reagan – R)

Clarence Thomas (appointed in 1991 by Bush, GHW – R)

Ruth Bader Ginsburg (appointed in 1993 by Clinton – D)

Stephen Breyer (appointed in 1994 by Clinton – D)

Samuel Alito (appointed in 2006 by Bush, GW – R)

Sonia Sotomayor (appointed in 2009 by Obama – D)

Elena Kagan (appointed in 2010 by Obama – D)

LINE OF SUCCESSION FOR THE U.S. PRESIDENCY

Vice President (President of the Senate)

Speaker of the House of Representatives (President of the House)

President Pro Tempore of the Senate (Vice President of the Senate)

Members of the U.S. Cabinet (in order of earliest date of establishment)

Constitutionally, Congress is to decide who is next beyond this point.

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